Mindfulness has been linked to increasing an individual's ability to focus, self-soothe, and process information. Understanding the ways in which our brain functions while engaging in mindfulness-based practices can be a helpful tool when deciding if mindfulness is right for you!
Outlined below is a little summary about the ways in which mindfulness works in your brain:
The Cerebral Cortex
This part of the brain is responsible for long-term memory and many other things. Mindfulness has been linked to increasing the amount of grey matter in our brains which assists with memory and speech.
The Anterior Cingulate Cortex
This part of the brain is responsible for focus and the ways in which we make decisions. Mindfulness has been linked to increasing the amount of activity in this part of the brain, which increases levels of self-control and concentration.
The Amygdala
This part of the brain is triggered when we respond emotionally to something. The amygdala is famously referred to as the fight-or-flight center. Mindfulness has been linked to shrinking the amygdala.
The Hippocampus
Much like the Cerebral Cortex, this part of the brain is also responsible for memory. Mindfulness has been linked to increasing the size of your hippocampus, thus increasing your memory capacity.
The Prefrontal Cortex
Much like the Anterior Cingulate Cortex, This part of the brain is also responsible for the ways in which we make decisions, it also assists us in navigating difficult tasks. Mindfulness has been linked to the strengthening of this area.
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